How to access the Console

In Debian, there are already six default virtual Consoles ready to be used. They all can be accessed using the key combination Ctrl + Alt + FN#Console. For example, the Console #3 is accessed by pressing Ctrl + Alt + F3.

Note The Console #7 is usually allocated to the graphical environment (Xorg, etc.).

Another method is to use a graphic display terminal within your desktop environment.

Under GNOME: Applications> System Tools> Terminal

or the keyboard shortcut Alt + F2 for "Run Application" and type "gnome-terminal"